John Block, a House representative from New Mexico, emphasized the importance of remembering victims, securing the release of hostages, and supporting Israel's defense to achieve lasting peace on the two-year anniversary of the October 7 attacks. This statement was made on X.
"Today marks two years since the October 7 massacre — when Hamas and Palestinian terrorists launched a barbaric attack on Israel, murdering, raping, and kidnapping innocent men, women, and children," said JOHN BLOCK, New Mexico State Representative for 51st District (R). "We must never forget the victims, and we must continue to demand the immediate release of all hostages still held in Gaza. Israel has every right to defend itself against terror, and the world must stand united against those who glorify violence. Only when Hamas is defeated can there be lasting security and true peace in the Middle East."
The second anniversary of the October 7, 2023, Israel–Hamas attacks was observed with public commemorations in Israel and international appeals for the release of remaining hostages. According to the Associated Press, Israelis gathered in Tel Aviv to honor victims and highlight families' demands two years after the assault. The U.N. Secretary-General called for the immediate release of all captives and respect for international humanitarian law. A new truce framework has drawn global attention with provisions for phased hostage-prisoner exchanges alongside military de-escalation.
Israeli and U.S. officials report that 48 hostages remain in Gaza, with around 20 believed to be alive and slated for release under a new cease-fire agreement's opening phase. The U.S. Department of State reiterated this week that these captives are still held, underscoring Washington's priority on their return. In parallel, the International Committee of the Red Cross has facilitated the release of 148 hostages (including eight deceased), reflecting incremental progress over two years.
Conflict tolls have risen sharply since October 2023. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) datasets show Palestinian fatalities surpassing 65,000 by late September and continuing to rise into October 2025. Israeli authorities report approximately two thousand deaths overall, including hundreds of Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers during ground operations. OCHA’s updates document month-to-month surges in deaths and injuries in Gaza tied to intensified bombardments and access constraints. Reuters cites Israeli military reports stating that 466 IDF soldiers were killed and nearly 3,000 wounded since ground operations began in late October 2023.
Block represents New Mexico House District 51 as a Republican and serves as the ranking member on the House Government, Elections & Indian Affairs Committee; he has also participated in Consumer & Public Affairs sessions previously. His public records note earlier roles related to public policy and political communications with organizations such as Americans United for Life and founding the Piñon Post.
